California Sales Tax Calculator
Calculate California state and local sales tax on purchases
California base state rate is 7.25%. Add local district taxes (typically 0.25% to 2.5%)
Note: California sales tax rates vary by location. The state base rate is 7.25%, and local districts add additional rates. Check with your local tax authority for exact rates in your area.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter the item price
Input the price of the item or service before sales tax is applied.
Enter local tax rate (if applicable)
Add any local district tax rate. California's base state rate is 7.25%, and local rates typically range from 0.25% to 2.5%.
Calculate total price
Click calculate to see the breakdown of state tax, local tax, total tax, and final price with tax included.
Formula
Total Tax Rate = State Rate + Local Rate
Tax Amount = Price × (Total Tax Rate / 100)
Total Price = Price + Tax Amount
Example:
Price = $100, State Rate = 7.25%, Local Rate = 1.0%
Total Rate = 7.25% + 1.0% = 8.25%
Tax Amount = $100 × 0.0825 = $8.25
Total Price = $100 + $8.25 = $108.25
About California Sales Tax Calculator
The California Sales Tax Calculator helps residents and visitors understand and calculate sales tax on purchases made in California. California has one of the highest combined sales tax rates in the United States, with a base state rate of 7.25% plus additional local district taxes that can push total rates above 10% in some areas. The state's sales tax system is complex because it combines a uniform state rate with varying local rates imposed by cities, counties, and special districts. These local taxes fund various municipal services, transportation projects, and special programs, which is why rates can differ significantly even between neighboring cities. Understanding sales tax is important for budgeting, business planning, and making informed purchasing decisions. This calculator simplifies the process by allowing you to input a base price and local tax rate to quickly determine the total tax and final price. It's particularly useful for online shoppers trying to estimate total costs, businesses calculating prices for customers, and anyone planning purchases in California. The calculator breaks down the tax into state and local components, helping you understand how California's layered tax system works. Keep in mind that some items may be exempt from sales tax (like most groceries, prescription medications, and certain services), and tax rates can change, so always verify current rates with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration for the most accurate information.
When to Use This Calculator
- Shopping planning: Estimate total cost including tax before making purchases
- Business pricing: Calculate final prices to charge customers
- Budgeting: Understand the true cost of items with tax included
- Tax compliance: Verify tax calculations for business records
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Quick calculation: Instantly determine total price with tax
- ✅ Breakdown: See state vs. local tax components
- ✅ Free tool: No registration or payment required
- ✅ Accurate: Uses current California state tax rate
Frequently Asked Questions
What is California's sales tax rate?
California's base state sales tax rate is 7.25%. However, local cities, counties, and districts add additional taxes, making total rates typically range from 7.25% to over 10% depending on location.
How do I find my local tax rate?
You can find your local sales tax rate by checking with your city or county tax office, using the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration's website, or checking your receipt from local purchases.
Are all items subject to sales tax in California?
No, some items are exempt including most groceries (unprepared food), prescription medications, certain medical devices, and some services. Prepared food, restaurant meals, and most retail items are taxable.
Do online purchases have sales tax?
Yes, online retailers are required to collect California sales tax if they have nexus in the state. The rate is based on the shipping address, so it includes both state and local taxes for that location.
Can sales tax rates change?
Yes, both state and local sales tax rates can change. Local districts may add or modify taxes through voter approval or local government action. Always verify current rates for accurate calculations.